U.S. patent application number 13/687682 was filed with the patent office on 2013-04-11 for golf swing measurement and analysis system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Roger Davenport. Invention is credited to Roger Davenport.
Application Number | 20130090179 13/687682 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45594500 |
Filed Date | 2013-04-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130090179 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Davenport; Roger |
April 11, 2013 |
GOLF SWING MEASUREMENT AND ANALYSIS SYSTEM
Abstract
A golf club assembly includes at least one sensor assembly, the
sensor assembly being operable to sense at least motion and impact
of a golf club head and a processor communicatively coupled to the
sensor assembly, the processor being operable to sample data from
the sensor assembly at a first rate, receive a signal indicating
motion of the golf club head, and sample data from the sensor
assembly at a second rate different from the first rate upon
receiving the signal indicating motion of the golf club head.
Inventors: |
Davenport; Roger; (Fort
Lauderdale, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Davenport; Roger |
Fort Lauderdale |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
45594500 |
Appl. No.: |
13/687682 |
Filed: |
November 28, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13273216 |
Oct 13, 2011 |
|
|
|
13687682 |
|
|
|
|
13269603 |
Oct 9, 2011 |
|
|
|
13273216 |
|
|
|
|
12287303 |
Oct 9, 2008 |
|
|
|
13269603 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/223 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/3614 20130101;
A63B 2071/0625 20130101; A63B 2071/063 20130101; Y10T 29/49002
20150115; A63B 2220/56 20130101; A63B 24/0006 20130101; A63B
53/0466 20130101; A63B 2220/53 20130101; A63B 60/00 20151001; A63B
69/36 20130101; A63B 2220/00 20130101; G08B 13/14 20130101; A63B
60/46 20151001; A63B 2220/40 20130101; A63B 69/3632 20130101; A63B
2225/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/223 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36 |
Claims
1. A golf club head assembly comprising: a processing assembly
communicatively coupled to at least one sensor and operable to
sample the at least one sensor at a sample rate that is adaptable
based on one or more sensor input values.
2. The golf club head assembly according to claim 1 wherein: the at
least one sensor includes at least one sensor from two or more
categories of sensors, wherein: a first category of the two or more
categories is a first sensor type; and a second category of the two
or more categories is a second sensor type.
3. The golf club head assembly according to claim 2, wherein the
processing assembly is further operable to: sample the first sensor
type of the first category at a first sampling rate, and sample the
second sensor type of the second category at a second sampling
rate, wherein the first sampling rate and the second sampling rate
are one of the same and different from each other.
4. The golf club head assembly according to claim 3, wherein: the
first sampling rate and the second sampling rate are individually
adaptable based on sensor inputs.
5. The golf club head assembly according to claim 1, wherein: the
at least one sensor is at least one of an accelerometer and an
impact sensor.
6. A golf club assembly comprising: at least one sensor assembly,
the sensor assembly being operable to sense at least motion and
impact of a golf club head; and a processor communicatively coupled
to the sensor assembly, the processor being operable to: sample
data from the sensor assembly at a first rate; receive a signal
indicating motion of the golf club head; and sample data from the
sensor assembly at a second rate different from the first rate upon
receiving the signal indicating motion of the golf club head.
7. The golf club assembly according to claim 6, wherein: the signal
indicating motion of the golf club head is an indication of a
change in motion of the golf club head.
8. The golf club assembly according to claim 7, wherein: the
processor is further operable to initiate reception of a signal
including impact data upon receiving the signal indicating a change
of motion of the golf club head.
9. The golf club assembly according to claim 6, wherein: the
processor is further operable to delay changing between the first
rate and the second rate upon receiving the signal indicating
motion of the golf club head.
10. The golf club assembly according to claim 6, further
comprising: a transmitter operable to transmit a least a portion of
the sampled data.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This patent application is a divisional application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/273,216 filed on Oct. 13, 2011 and
entitled "Golf Swing Measurement and Analysis system," which is a
continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/269,603 filed Oct. 9, 2011, entitled "Golf Swing Measurement and
Analysis system," which is a continuation-in-part application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/287,303 filed Oct. 9, 2008 and
entitled "Golf Swing Analysis Apparatus and Method," the entire
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a measurement and analysis
system for determining the effectiveness of a golfer's swing based
on all measurements made at the golf club head.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Golf swing analysis systems and concepts for swing analysis
systems have exited for many years. The existing systems typically
have sensors attached to or within the club head or the club shaft
or both and many communicate information wirelessly.
[0004] A system shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,736,242 to Stites, shows
an integrated golf club with acceleration sensors on the shaft and
in the club head and communicates wirelessly. The system also
discloses a club head with an impact module that may include a
strain gage. The system in U.S. Pat. No. 7,736,242 does not teach
or suggest an integrated electronic system golf clubhead that
integrates impact sensors into the club head face in combination
with acceleration measurement sensors located in the club head and
further does not teach an antenna system that utilizes the
electrical properties and shape of the club head as an integral
component element of the antenna system design to increase power
efficiency and further operating time duration based on storage
capacity of energy device.
[0005] Another example of attaching sensors to a golf club is shown
in U.S. Pat. No. 4,898,389 to Plutt, who claims a self-contained
device for indicating the area of impact on the face of the club
and the ball, and a means for an attachable and detachable sensor
or sensor array that overlies the face of the club. Plutt's device
does not provide for an imbedded impact sensor array in the
clubface that functions in conjunction with internal three
dimensional g-force sensors to provide a superset of time varying
spatial force impact contours of the clubface with club head
acceleration force parameters that can be calibrated for highly
accurate spatial and force measurement. Plutt's device is
susceptible to location inaccuracy due to the removable constraint
of the sensors and is susceptible to sensor damage since the
sensors come in direct contact with the ball.
[0006] These systems fail to teach or suggest a self-contained
integrated electronic system golf club head comprising the
functions and methods of: measuring three orthogonal acceleration
axes across time with accelerometer(s) from within the club head
and measuring club face impact location and club face force
profile(s) with impact sensor within the club face and support
electronics with wireless communication capabilities located in
club head that further facilitate transmit and receive functions
through an antenna system that utilized the club head as an
integral electrical element component of the antenna system to
enable efficient electrical power usage that further enables a
light weight combination of sensors and electronics and energy
source that further enables the proper weight of an integrated golf
club head comprising the combination of sensors and electronics and
energy sources and club head shell structure that results in
substantially the same physical performance characteristics of the
overall system golf club head with respect to weight, center of
gravity and coefficient of restitution as a regulation club head of
similar type.
[0007] Examples of golf club head types include but not limited to:
a driver golf club head type, a wood golf club head type, a hybrid
golf club head type, an iron golf head type or a putter golf club
head type. In addition, the club head must be made at least in part
of an electrically conducting material such as aluminum, titanium
or any other metal or alloy or combination of metals or alloys or a
combination.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is an integrated golf club that
measure swing performance characteristics with three orthogonal
acceleration measurements and impact pressure sensor measurements
integrated into the golf club head and further wirelessly transmits
and receives radio wave signals from golf club head using an
antenna system comprising two or more electrically conductive
elements and at least one electrically non-conductive object, and
further first electrically conductive element is an electrically
conductive golf club head. Further, integrated electronics system
golf club head has substantially the same coefficient of
restitution and weight and center of gravity as a regulation play
golf club head of similar type.
[0009] The present invention is an integrated golf club that
comprises an integrated electronic system golf club head that is
attachable and detachable to a golf club shaft and the integrated
electronic system golf club head has substantially the same
physical and performance characteristics as a regulation golf club
head of similar type. The integrated electronic system golf club
head measure three orthogonal axis of acceleration during the
entire swing and measures ball/club face impact force profiles
distributed across club face throughout the time duration of the
impact and both types of measurement are synchronized on a single
time line. Further the integrated electronic system golf club head
communicates wirelessly using radio waves between itself and a user
interface device. The transmission and reception of radio wave from
the club head is efficiently facilitated by an integrated antenna
system that by design defines and utilizes attributes including
physical structure and electrical properties of the club head shell
in the overall antenna system design. The integrated electronic
system golf club head shell also serves as the physical structure
for enclosing and mounting assemblies that provide the system
functions including: sensing, data capture and processing, memory,
communication signal wave generation and data formatting for
wireless transmission and reception along with an energy source to
operate the electronics.
[0010] The benefits of an integrated electronic system golf club
head is that it can perform substantially similar to that of a
regulation golf club head of same type, while providing essential
measurements of swing and or impact performance characteristics to
the golfer reliably over a time period that is of adequate length
for a training session or round of golf. These requirements
translated into an integrated electronics system golf club head
with substantially the same physical properties of a similar type
golf club head with regards to weight, center of gravity and
structural impact performance. The integrated electronics system
golf club head comprises a number of assemblies that include club
face assembly including impact sensors, antenna system assembly
including club head shell, electronics assembly, three dimensional
acceleration sensor(s) assembly and energy source assembly. These
assemblies all have a defined mass and weight that when assembled
provide substantially the same coefficient of restitution, weight
and center-of-gravity as a regulation golf club head of similar
type. Therefore, this drives the requirement that the electronic
measurement and communication support function assemblies be a
light as possible while performing their required functions
accurately and reliably over a defined period of time so enough
mass of material is available for the club head shell structure to
provide mechanical structural performance requirements to function
as a high performance golf club head. To achieve the lightest
weight electronic and support assemblies possible, the electronic
component parts count must be minimized, and the electronic design
including all processing and wireless communication must be
optimized for power efficiency to reduce the size and weight of the
energy source required to operate the electronics system for an
adequate period of time. This invention is an integrated electronic
system golf club head that preserves the golf club head physical
performance properties and further utilizes the golf club head
shell physical structure and electrical properties to reduce parts
count, materials and improve power efficiency of the electronic
processing and communication functions to reduce the physical
weight of electronics while providing accurate and reliable
measurement and wireless communication performance. Further, when
integrated electronic system golf club head is combined with a golf
club shaft with grip the combination become a complete golf swing
and impact measurement system.
[0011] The first category of measured forces includes three
dimensional motional acceleration forces at the club head during
the entire golf swing including impact. The relationship between
force and acceleration is F(t)=m.sub.cha(t) where F(t) is the time
varying force vector, m.sub.ch is the known mass of the club head
and a(t) is the time varying acceleration vector experienced by a
given acceleration force sensor. The three dimensional axial domain
of the acceleration force vectors has its origin at the center of
gravity and the axial domain is orientated with one axis referenced
normal to the club head face and another axis aligned with a known
angle offset to anticipated non flexed shaft. The mechanism used to
measure this category of motional forces is a three dimensional
g-force acceleration sensor or sensors.
[0012] The second category of force measurements includes the
impact pressure forces that occur across the golf club head face
for the duration of time for clubface and ball impact. This time
varying pressure force is a scalar pressure profile normal to the
clubface that is a result of the impact force and location of the
ball on the clubface. The relationship between pressure and force
is p(t)=F .sub.normal-to-A (t) A where p(t) is the time varying
pressure experienced by a given pressure force sensor, F
.sub.normal-to-A (t) is the time varying vector component of the
force vector that is normal to the surface of the pressure force
sensor and also the clubface, and A is the surface area of a given
pressure force sensor element. The axial reference domain is the
same for the g-force sensors described above with respect to club
face. The mechanism to measure this category of pressure forces is
an array of one or more pressure force sensors embedded in the club
face that are measuring time varying impact pressure forces across
the club face during the entire duration of club head face and ball
impact.
[0013] Both categories of dynamic direct vector measurements are
related with a single time line and a single shared physical domain
allowing a large number highly accurate golf club swing, club/ball
impact and club head to ball orientation metrics to be realized. To
achieve this aggregate of direct physical measurements, the golf
club head has embedded within it at least one acceleration three
dimensional g-force sensor and at least one, but preferably a
plurality of impact pressure force sensors geometrically
distributed in the club head face. From the aggregate related
measurements of these two measurement categories associated with a
single time line and a defined spatial relationship to each other
and to the club head physical structure, the following metrics are
either directly measured or directly calculated (If a metric
calculation requires an assumption, such as ball surface condition
and hence friction coefficient, it is stated as an estimate):
[0014] 1. Time varying pressure or force profile across the golf
clubface; [0015] 2. Location of impact of clubface and ball on
clubface; [0016] 3. Duration in time of club head face and ball
impact; [0017] 4. Maximum pressure or force measured on clubface;
[0018] 5. Total energy transferred from club to ball; [0019] 6.
Time varying three dimensional motional acceleration and associated
force vectors on club head before, during and after club head face
and ball impact; [0020] 7. Radial acceleration forces on club for
estimation of club head velocity; [0021] 8. Three dimensional
deceleration force vectors of club head during the club/ball
impact; [0022] 9. Force vector components that are transferred to
ball launch and ball spin; [0023] 10. Estimated percent of total
energy components transferred to ball trajectory and ball spin;
[0024] 11. Club head orientation with respect to ball from before
club head/ball impact, during ball impact and after impact; [0025]
12. Orientation of ball spin referenced to club head face; [0026]
13. Estimation of ball launch velocity; [0027] 14. Estimation of
ball spin velocity; [0028] 15. Impact error offset on clubface
which is a distance from actual impact location to optimum impact
location [0029] 16. Club head orientation percentage error from
optimum in relation to club head/ball impact (This could be
described as an error for each of three vectors describing forces
on club head from ball) and; [0030] 17. Measure of torque and
angular momentum of the club head as caused by the event of club
head/ball impact.
[0031] The sensors are connected to electrical analog and digital
circuitry and an energy storage/supply device, also embedded within
the club head shell cavity. Further the analog and digital
circuitry also referred to as electronics is electrically connected
to an antenna system that uses the club head shell as an electrical
conductive element as part of the antenna system. The analog and
digital circuitry electronic assembly conditions the signals from
the sensors, samples the signals from each sensor group category,
converts to a digital format, attaches a time stamp to each
category or group type of simultaneous sensor measurements, and
then stores the data in memory. The process of sampling sensors
simultaneously for each sensor category or group type is
sequentially repeated at a fast rate and may be a different rate
between sensor categories or group types, so that all measured
points from each sensor category or group type are relatively
smooth with respect to time. The minimum sampling rate is the
"Nyquist rate" of the highest significant and pertinent frequency
domain component for each of the sensors' category or group types
time wave representations.
[0032] The electronics assembly, further temporarily stores the
measured data sets and further formats the data into protocol
structures for wireless transmission. Each data set is queued and
then transmitted in a wireless protocol format from a radio
frequency transceiver circuit that is electrically connected to an
antenna system assembly electrical port. The antenna system
comprises at least two electrically conducting elements. One of the
electrically conducting elements of the antenna system assembly is
the electrically conductive club head shell. The shapes and sizes
of all antenna elements and objects are optimized as an antenna
system to provide a desired input electrical port impedance
characteristic and a desired radio wave radiation pattern for the
antenna system. Further the electrically conductive club head
element and club face assembly also provides the physical structure
and performance attributes of a functional golf club head.
[0033] The combined weight of all assemblies of the integrated
electronics system golf club head is substantially equal to that of
a regulation play club head of similar type. In addition, the
mounting location of all pieces of all assemblies either internal
to the club head shell or external to the club head shell are
configured so the center of gravity of the integrated electronics
system golf club head is substantially similar to that of
regulation play golf club head of similar type that is considered
to deliver good performance
[0034] This invention also provides a variety of methods including
the sequence of steps that may be used to effectively optimize all
of the variable that are encountered with the design of integrated
electronic system golf club head, taking into account the many
tradeoffs between dual function requirements placed on individual
components and structures.
[0035] The present invention encompasses a variety of options for
the golfer to receive and interpret the information of swing,
impact and orientation metrics or a subset of total metrics
available. The human interface function is separate human interface
device that communicates wirelessly with the integrated electronic
system golf club head. The human interface function can provide all
or any subset of audible and visual outputs. Examples may include
wireless smart device such as a PDA or laptop computer or any other
device that has processing capabilities and a display and audio
capabilities and can be adapted to communicate wirelessly using
standard or non-standard wireless protocols. Some of the standard
wireless protocols may include but not limited to ZigBee,
Blue-Tooth or WiFi. Some of the non-standard protocol may include a
completely custom modulation with associated custom protocol data
structure or standard high level packet structure based on 802.11
or 802.15 with custom sub-packet data structure within high level
packet structure.
[0036] The preferred embodiment of the integrated golf club, in
addition to the previous described electronics, also has data
formatting for wireless transport using Bluetooth.TM. transceiver
protocols. The data, once transferred over the wireless link to the
laptop computer, are processed and formatted into visual and or
audio content with a proprietary software program specific for this
invention. Examples of user selectable information formats and
content could be: [0037] 1. a dialog window showing a graphical
representation of the clubface using a color force representation
of the maximum force gradient achieved conveying the area of impact
of the ball and along the side the graphic could show text
describing key metrics such as maximum force achieved, radial
acceleration of club at impact (related to club head velocity) and
total energy transferred to the ball; [0038] 2. a motion video of
the time varying nature of the forces on the clubface; [0039] 3. a
three dimensional graphic showing force vectors on club head from
ball; [0040] 4. an audio response which verbally speaks to the
golfer telling him/her the desired metrics; [0041] 5. a video
showing time varying acceleration vectors of the golf club head
during the swing and through impact; or [0042] 6. numerous other
combinations of audio and visual user defined.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The above and other features of the present invention will
become more apparent upon reading the following detailed
description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention
integrated golf club head (golf club shaft not shown) with impact
pressure force sensors embedded in the clubface and a three
dimensional g-force acceleration sensor inside the club head;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention as
shown in FIG. 1 except showing dashed line A and without depiction
of the sensors;
[0046] FIG. 2A is a cross sectional view of the club head of the
present invention of FIG. 2 taken along line A showing clubface
structure with two metal layers and there between the impact
pressure force sensor elements within embedding material monolith
and further sensor elements electrical connected to electronics
module within club head shell
[0047] FIG. 2B is a partially exploded cross sectional view of the
club head face assembly of the present invention showing two metal
layers both rigidly attached the club head shell housing;
[0048] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the club head system
showing the clubface assembly, antenna assembly, three dimensional
acceleration measurement assembly, electronics assembly and energy
storage assembly with electrical connections between said
assemblies.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a graph showing two return loss measurements (S11)
of a single antenna, demonstrating the detuning effect on
electrical port impedance when antenna is placed near an electrical
conducting object.
[0050] FIGS. 5, 5 A, and 5 B show components of the antenna
assembly that include FIG. 5 the club head shell with electrically
conductive outer surface, FIG. 5A example types of some possible
additional conductive elements and FIG. 5B example types of some
possible electrically non-conductive objects.
[0051] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of an antenna system with a first
electrically conducting element that is the club head shell outer
surface attached to an electrically non-conducting object that is
further attach to and enclosing to a second electrically conducting
element of a wire type.
[0052] FIG. 6A shows another embodiment of an antenna system with a
first electrically conducting element that is the club head shell
outer surface attached to two separate electrically non-conducting
objects that each further attach individually and enclosing to two
separate electrically conducting elements, both of a wire type.
[0053] FIG. 7 shows the preferred embodiment of an antenna system
configured to utilize fringe e-field effects to create radiating
apertures similar to patch type antennas. The antenna system
comprises a first electrically conducting element that is the club
head shell outer surface that attached to a first electrically
non-conducting object that is a dielectric sheet that is further
attached to a second electrically conducting element that is a
metal sheet.
[0054] FIG. 7A is a partially exploded cross sectional view of the
antenna system of FIG. 7 showing the two electrical contact points
that define the antenna system electrical port.
[0055] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of club head utilizing the
antenna system of FIG. 7 showing another electrically
non-conducting RF transparent structure attached to club head shell
outer surface and covering antennas system components for improved
aerodynamic performance.
[0056] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of sensors and electronic
processing functions and electronic support functions of integrated
golf club of the present invention;
[0057] FIGS. 9, 9A, 9B and 9C details a golfer swing time lapse
showing associated trigger points that control and alter data
capture processing parameters within the electronics of the present
invention
[0058] FIG. 10 is the club head shell showing club head wall with a
varying wall thickness structure embodiment for optimizing weight,
balance and structural integrity of overall club head shell.
[0059] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of club head shell wall
of FIG. 10 showing a wall thickness profile structure embodiment
comprising two separate materials.
[0060] FIG. 11 details the present invention integrated golf club
head attached to a golf club shaft transmitting captured swing and
impact data to a remote user interface wirelessly to a laptop
computer.
[0061] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a user definable format
portion of the data processing and human interface software running
on a laptop computer of the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the present invention
detailing user selectable content metrics that are available for
the audio and text format options in the software;
[0063] FIG. 14 a block diagram of the present invention detailing
user selectable content metrics that are available for the still
graphics and motion graphics format options in the software;
[0064] FIG. 15 is a partially exploded cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of the club head face construction of the
present invention showing two metal layers of which only the inner
metal layer is rigidly attached to the club head housing;
[0065] FIG. 16 is a partially exploded cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of the club head face construction of the
present invention showing a single metal layer and a hard material
other than metal embedding the pressure force sensors that is the
outer surface of the club head face;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0066] The present invention comprises an integrated golf club that
further comprises a golf club shaft with a grip attached at one end
and an integrated electronic system golf club head attached at the
other end. The integrated electronic system golf club head measures
directly and stores time varying acceleration forces during the
entire golf club swing and further additional time varying impact
forces in the time span from before the golf club head and ball
impact, to a point in time after club head and ball separation.
There are two categories of physical parameters being measured in
real time with different mechanisms; both convert directly to time
varying force vectors. The force vectors from each measurement
mechanism are interdependent in time and in a fixed spatial
relation to one another as the club head transitions through all of
the different dynamic forces during a golf swing, ball impact and
after impact.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 1, the golf club head 10, has a three
dimensional g-force acceleration sensor 20 mounted within the
electrically conductive club head 10 shell cavity at a
predetermined location. In one of many embodiments for this
invention, the sensor(s) can be placed at a predetermined location
that is the center of gravity of the club head 10 for
simplification of metric calculations. However, the sensor(s) does
not have to be located at the center of gravity and all metrics
defined are still achievable. The club head 10, also has an array
of impact pressure force sensors 30 embedded in the golf club head
face 11. The hosel 8 may be made of a material that electrically
conductive or electrically non-conductive depending on embodiment
implementation and is attached to the club head 10. The hosel may
be adapted to connect and disconnect from a golf club shaft (not
shown) of the club.
[0068] As shown in FIGS. 2, 2A and 2B the club head 10 and a club
head cross section view FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B show selected
assemblies. FIG. 2A show cross sectional view 12 of club head 10
showing the construction of the club face 11 assembly having two
metal layers, the outer layer 13 and the inner layer 14. The outer
and inner layers 13, 14 are made with predetermined materials that
may be the same or different. In the preferred embodiment both
layer 13 and layer 14 are both made of a metal type material. The
pressure force sensors 30 are imbedded in a non-metallic,
non-electrical conducting medium of optimum physical properties 15
between the two layers 13 and 14 as part of the clubface 11. The
non-conducting medium 15 is a hard epoxy or similar material
monolith structure with the pressure sensors 30 and their
electrical connections embedded within it. Some examples of
possible materials include UV curable epoxies such as UV Cure 60-71
05.TM. or medium to hard composition of Vantico.TM. or one of the
compositions of Araldite.TM. or other suitable materials. The
monolith structure can be created with exact pressure sensor
placement and orientation with known injection molding
technologies. An example of this process would be to make an
injection mold that creates half of the monolith structure and has
half pockets for a precise fit for each of the sensors and
electrical connection ribbon. The sensors 30 with electrical
connections are then placed in the preformed pockets of the initial
half monolith. The initial half monolith with sensors is then
placed in a second injection mold which completes the entire
monolith. The sensors 30 are attached to a flex circuit ribbon 17a
that will extend out from the monolith structure, through a small
pass through opening in the inner layer 14, that connects to the
electronics assembly 18 in the club head cavity.
[0069] The non-conducting monolith material 15 with embedded
pressure sensors 30 can be pressure fit between the outer layer 13
and the inner layer 14. The outer layer 13 and the inner layer 14
can be connected to the club head shell housing 16 with
conventional club head construction techniques utilizing weld seams
or other attachment processes. Some techniques might include
Aluminum MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding for aluminum to aluminum
connection and brazing for aluminum to titanium connections. The
clubface layers
[0070] 13 and 14 can be titanium or comparable metal or alloy and
the club head housing components can be an aluminum or alloy.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 2B, another cross sectional expanded view
which is the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
inner metal layer 14 is a predetermined thickness and shape with a
defined rigidness the outer clubface layer 13 is a predefined
thickness and shape with a defined rigidness that define a club
face system when combined with monolith 15. Both the outer layer 13
and the inner layer 14 are rigidly attached to the club shell
housing 16 through the aforementioned welding process. In this
configuration, the pressure exerted and resulting deformation on
the outer layer 13 of golf clubface 11 resulting from ball and club
face impact create a time varying pressure profile on the
non-metallic medium monolith 15. The individual pressure sensors 30
each generate an output voltage proportional to the pressure
experienced by that sensor. The pressure force sensors each may be
any predetermined size and shape individually. However, the
pressure sensors elements 30 in the preferred embodiment are
piezoelectric elements made of a predetermined material with the
same predetermined shape, surface area and thickness, therefore
generating identical pressure force versus voltage profiles. In the
case where the clubface inner 14 and outer 13 metal layers are both
rigidly connected to the club head shell housing 16, the
deformation of the monolith 15 will be less near the edge 28 of the
clubface. This means that less pressure will be measured for the
same impact force by sensors closer to the edge of the club face
11. These variations will be a constant with respect to the fixed
geometric shape of club face system in combination with club head
10 shell and can be calibrated out in the digital signal process
with fixed calibration coefficients programmed into the processing.
Calibration coefficients may be determined through simulation or
during production on a per club head type basis.
[0072] The predetermined materials used and predetermined shapes
and thicknesses of all components of the club face structure
assembly are individually optimized to further optimize the
physical properties of the overall club face system to be
substantially similar to that of a regulation play golf club head
face of similar type and to provide adequate sensitivity of sensor
embedded 30 in monolith structure 15. The process for design
optimization of the club face system assembly defines the material
properties used for each individual piece of the club face assembly
and also the physical structure including size and shape of each
individual piece of the club face assembly. Further the defined
materials, shapes and sizes of all pieces further defines the club
head face system overall weight and form factor and mass
distribution. The process for design optimization of the club face
system is a sub process of the overall design optimization process
of the integrated electronics system golf club head.
[0073] The process for design optimizing the club face system takes
into account several considerations and tradeoffs. The primary two
objectives are to define a club face system structure that
physically performs like a regulation club face of similar type and
also provides adequate sensor sensitivity across the club face to
measure with reasonable resolution ball/club face impact relative
to a reasonable dynamic range of club head speeds at impact. An
example dynamic range for a driver type may be 45 MPH to 130 MPH.
Secondary goals are to achieve the lowest weight possible for the
club face system providing maximum flexibility for the final
optimization process that defines final weight and mass
distribution of integrated electronics system golf club head
design. Therefore a means of defining the optimal predetermined
materials, sizes and shapes for all components of the club face
assembly are done with the design optimization process for the club
face system include the steps of: [0074] 1. Choose club head type
[0075] 2. Choose a typical club head speed dynamic range for that
golf club type in association with targeted golfer population skill
level. [0076] 3. Choose a piezoelectric material that will provide
high electromechanical coupling coefficient for sensor element(s)
30 for electronic measurement resolution purposes. [0077] 4. Choose
metal material for outer club face layer 13 [0078] 5. Choose
material for inner club face layer 14 [0079] 6. Choose attachment
mechanism for club face assembly attachment to club head shell.
[0080] 7. Choose material for monolith for embedding sensor
elements 30 and define an initial size and shape of impact sensor
elements based on knowledge monolith material. [0081] 8. Start with
initial thickness and shape factor of outer club face layer 13
similar to that of a regulation club of that type. [0082] 9. Choose
an initial thickness shape factor for inner club face layer 14 that
is substantially thinner and has similar shape factor of initial
outer club face layer 13 [0083] 10. Choose an initial thickness of
monolith that is 1.5-2 times the thickness of the sensor elements
based on piezoelectric material selection in step 3. [0084] 11.
Model with a Finite Element Simulator that has piezoelectric
modeling capabilities such as PZ-Flex.TM. the layered structure
comprising, outer layer 13, monolith 15 and inner layer 14, with
all edges bound in accordance with step 6. [0085] 12. Through
simulation, record voltage waveforms for all sensor elements for
time varying loads applied to outer surface of outer layer 13
representing a golf ball impact of a predetermined speed and
predetermined location on club face. [0086] 13. Repeat step 11 for
different impact speeds from lowest to highest defined by the step
2 dynamic range for a specific location on the club face. [0087]
14. Repeat step 12 for different impact location on club face.
[0088] 15. Evaluate elastic response characteristics of club face
system compared to a regulation club face of similar club type in
relation to COR (Coefficient of Restitution). [0089] 16. Evaluate
electrical response of sensor outputs based on maximum amplitude
measure at maximum club head velocity with impact at the center of
the club face. [0090] 17. Evaluate electrical response of a sensor
with maximum output at minimum velocity for a ball impact near a
bound edge. [0091] 18. Define dynamic range regarding electrical
sensor out from step 16 defining high end of dynamic range across
club face and from step 17 for low end of dynamic range across club
face. [0092] 19. Evaluate if electrical dynamic range of sensor
outputs for entire club face (from step 18) provides adequate
sensitivity for defined data capture constraints of electronics
assembly. [0093] 20. Evaluate elastic response characteristics of
club face system (from step 15) are within a defined tolerance when
compared to a regulation golf club face of similar type. [0094] 21.
If steps 19 and 20 are satisfied, optimization is complete. If one
or both criteria are not satisfied adjust control parameters that
include thickness of metal layers 13 and 14 and monolith layer 15
in the flowing manner: [0095] a. If electrical dynamic range is too
small to provide adequate sensitivity do any single or combination
of the following: [0096] i. Increase metal layer thickness 14
[0097] ii. Decrease metal layer thickness 13 [0098] iii. Decrease
monolith layer 15 [0099] b. If electrical dynamic range is larger
than require for adequate sensitivity do any single or combination
of the following: [0100] i. Do nothing and move to strait to
elastic response adjustments if needed [0101] and reduce sensor
signal levels uniformly in electronics assembly before data capture
[0102] ii. Increase metal layer thickness 13 [0103] iii. Decrease
metal layer thickness 14 [0104] iv. Increase monolith layer 15
[0105] c. If elastic response of club face system is to stiff do
any single or combination of the following: [0106] i. Decrease
metal layer thickness 13 [0107] ii Increase monolith layer
thickness 15 [0108] iii. Decrease metal layer thickness 14 [0109]
d. If electric response is too soft, do any single combination of
the following: [0110] i. Increase metal layer thickness 13 [0111]
ii. Decrease monolith layer thickness 15 [0112] iii. Increase metal
layer thickness 14 [0113] 22. Select control parameters to adjust
electrical and mechanical responses and feed new control parameters
based on step 21 a, b, c, d into step 11 and repeat process until
club face system performance criteria are met.
[0114] FIG. 3 shows a cross section view of the integrated
electronics system golf club head with assemblies related to
measurement and commination's represented. The three orthogonal
axes acceleration measurement assembly comprises a three
dimensional acceleration g-force sensor 20 or combination of one
and two dimensional g-force sensors to give three dimensional
measurement capabilities that are attached to a small printed
circuit board 29. The printed circuit board 29 is electrically
connected with electronics assembly 18 with a flex ribbon 17b. The
acceleration measurement assembly is mounted in a predetermined
spatial relationship to the club head shell structure. The
preferred embodiment defines the predetermined spatial relationship
to the club head shell structure to be the center of gravity of the
overall integrated electronics system golf club head. The mounting
method and structure of mounting mechanism is defined latter in the
final design optimization process. An example of a resultant
possible mounting from final design optimization process is
described for clarity purposes. In one embodiment the small printed
circuit board 29 will be attached with a durable adhesive to a
metallic or non-metallic rigid protrusion 19 attached to the club
head 10 shell inner surface either by adhesive, weld, fastener, or
other well-known connection means. The protrusion 19 extending to
the spatial location that is predefined location for the sensor
circuit board 29 assembly. The surface areas 19a of the protrusion
19 on which the sensor's printed circuit board 29 is mounted has a
defined orientation within the club head to align the acceleration
measurement axes with the pre-defined reference axes of the club
head.
[0115] The electronics assembly 18 is located at a predetermined
location within club head shell 10 cavity. The predetermined
location and mounting method are defined later in the final design
and optimization process. The electronics assembly 18 is
electrically connected with flexible transmission line or coax
cable 17c to antenna elements and object(s) assembly 27 and located
at a predetermined location on club head 10 shell outer surface.
Further electronics assembly 18 is electrically connected with
wire(s) 17d to energy source assembly 26 that is located at a
predetermined location within club head 10 shell. All assemblies
located in the club head 10 shell cavity may be mounted in their
individual predefined locations with mounting structures attached
to club head 10 shell cavity inner surface similar to structure 19
or may be held in their predetermined location within a light
weight molded form body that that is spatially fixed in club head
10 shell cavity and provides spatial support for each assembly
relative to club head 10 shell structure. The light weight molded
form body may be a durable light weight foam material or a light
weight plastic molded structure.
[0116] All of the assemblies including: club face assembly,
electronics, acceleration g-force sensors assembly, antenna system
assembly and energy source assembly each have a predetermined
weight that is defined in the design optimization process of each
separate assembly. The assemblies are combined and assembled in the
final design optimization process where final individual
predetermined location of assemblies and club head shell wall
thickness profiles are defined to further define the desired weight
and mass distribution of overall club head system. optimized club
head shell structure that is part of the antenna system assembly
have a total weight substantially similar to that of a regulation
golf club head of similar type that is recognized to have good
performance. In addition, the predetermined locations of the
antenna components sub-assembly(ies) and electronics assembly and
the acceleration g-force sensor assembly and the energy source
assembly in conjunction with club face assembly are optimized so
that the center of gravity of the integrated electrons system golf
club head is substantially similar to that of a regulation golf
club head of similar type.
[0117] In general, mobile electronic devices that depend on a
battery or other energy storage device(s) and that utilize radio
wave wireless communications are challenged with size, weight and
operational time duration. The power consumption efficiency of an
electronics wireless system is heavily depend the ability to
efficiently convert electronic signals generated from within the
physical electronics to propagating radio waves with an intended
radiation pattern. The power efficiency of the conversion process
is typically dominated by the characteristics of the physical
antenna elements structures that further control the electrical
port impedance of the antenna system operating at a predetermined
frequency or frequency band.
[0118] The integrated electronics system golf club head antenna
system utilizes the electrical properties and defines physical
surface shape properties of the club head shell itself as part of
the antenna system. The components of the antenna system include at
least two or more electrically conducting elements and may include
at least one or more electrically non-conducting objects. The
preferred embodiment antenna system of this invention utilizes and
defines the club head shell and surface structure as one of the
electrically conducting elements. The design optimization process
for the antenna system defines the shape(s), size(s), and material
properties of all components of the antenna system. All components
of the antenna system are also in a predetermined fixed spatial
relationship with one another. The design optimization process of
the antenna system defines all components of the antenna system and
specifically defines a club head shell outer surface structure that
in combination with other antenna components provides desired
radiation patterns and desired electrical input port impedance to
optimize the power efficiency of the system that further enables a
smaller and lighter energy storage device. In addition, the wall
thickness of the club head 10 shell are further optimized in later
described processes to provide structural support for the overall
assembled club head to perform as a golf club head with
substantially similar physical performance criteria as a regulation
golf club head of similar type.
[0119] The integrated club head antenna system may be implemented
with one or a combination of techniques that launch radio wave and
influence radiation patterns. The first technique employs the club
head as a quasi-ground plane or ground object reflector that is in
a fixed spatial relationship with other electrically conducting
element or elements. The radiating element such as a wire operating
in the presence of a ground object produces two rays at each
observation angle, a direct ray from the radiating element and a
second ray due to the refection from the ground object affecting
radiation pattern. The second technique employs patch antenna
theory that requires a ground plane or quasi ground plane that in
combination with a conductive patch or sheet type electrically
conductive element creates a trapped wave resonant cavity. The
resonant structure facilitates electric field fringe effects to
generate electromagnetic radiating apertures. The required quasi
ground plane or quasi-ground object is implemented with the
conductive club head shell surface. In both techniques, the club
head shell is used as an electrically conductive element of the
antenna system and the structure of the electrically conductive
club head shell outer surface is an integral part of the overall
antenna system design and affects performance with regards to
electrical port impedance and the radiation pattern and reception
gain performance of the antenna system structure as a whole.
[0120] The preferred embodiment of the antenna system comprise at
least, a first electrically conducting element that is a golf club
head shell made of electrically conducting material and at least
one additional electrically conducting element and may have at
least one electrically non-conducting object.
[0121] The benefits of the integrated club head antenna system are
multifaceted, namely fewer parts, lighter weight and better
performance as compared to using an off the shelf antenna(s) that
is/are not designed to function in the constant presence of a metal
object namely the club head. For an off the shelf generic antenna
designed for a free space environment, both port impedance and
radiation pattern are also strongly influenced by all electrically
conducting objects in their near environment. The result of using
an off the shelf antenna in the near presence to a golf club head
has the effect of detuning the electrical port impedance creating
an impedance mismatch between the circuitry electrical output port
that is driving the electrical input port of the antenna system. As
shown in FIG. 4, an electrical port impedance change of an antenna
system is demonstrated with two different return loss (S11)
measurements on a network analyzer. The first S11 curve 70 shows an
antenna return loss with the intended impedance match between the
50 ohm network analyzer port and the intended 50 ohm impedance of
the electrical port of the antenna for the intended frequency band
72 in a relatively free space environment. The second S11 curve 71
is measured with the antenna system in the presence of a large
metal object in near proximity of the same antenna. The S11 curve
71 shows the significant impedance mismatch described with return
loss that is now taking place in the intended frequency band 72
between the 50 ohm port of the network analyzer and the antenna
system port. In summary, the presence of a metal object near an
antenna system significantly alters the input impedance of the
electrical port of the antenna and alters the overall radiation
pattern of the combination or antenna and reflecting object.
[0122] All of the variations of the antenna system comprise at
least, a first electrically conducting element that is a golf club
head shell made of electrically conducting material and at least
one additional electrically conducting element and may have at
least one electrically non-conducting object.
[0123] As shown in FIG. 5 the first conducting element of the
antenna system is the electrically conductive club head 10 shell
that has an outer surface 50 with club face assembly included. The
outer conductive surface 50 comprises regional surfaces that
include the top surface 51 and bottom surface 52 and side surfaces
that include a toe side surface 54 and heal side surface 53. The
shape and contour of one or more of the outer surface components
may be modified to optimize the antenna system performance.
[0124] As shown in FIG. 5A the second or other or additional
electrical conducting element(s) of the antenna system can be any
predefined shape(s). Some examples additional electrical conducting
elements are a wire 60 of a predefined length L and predefined form
factor or a metal sheet in a plane 61 form factor or domed shape
(not shown) form factor or any other surface form factor of
predefined descriptive dimension such as length and width and other
dimensions describing shape or a combination thereof.
[0125] As shown in FIG. 5B a least one or more electrically
non-conducting object(s) may each be any predefined shape and size
with a predefined dielectric property. The predefined shape(s) and
the predefined dielectric properties are defined in the design
optimization process for the antenna system. The function of the
electrical non-conducting object is to physical hold the additional
electrical conducting elements in a predetermined orientation to a
predefined surface structure of the electrically conductive club
head shell outer surface and affect the electric field in a
predetermined way of the additional electrically conducting
element. An exemplary electrically non-conducting object 62 may be
a shape that is adapted to attach to a some predetermined location
on the club head shell outer surface 50 and further supports the an
additional electrically conducting element such as wire 60 at a
predetermined spatial relationship to the club head shell and
electrically non-conducting object 62 has the material dielectric
property similar to air. Another exemplary electrically
non-conducting object 63 is a sheet of material that may be a plane
type shape with a predetermined length, width and thickness and
further a predetermined dielectric constant that is substantially
higher than that of air and that attaches to the club head shell 10
outer surface 50 at a predetermined location and is further
attached to the metal plane 61 with metal plane 61 located at a
predefined location on the surface of electrically non-conducting
object 63.
[0126] FIG. 6 and FIG. 6A show antenna systems that utilize the
conducting club head 10 shell as ground reflector for an antenna
system. FIG. 6 shows an exemplary antenna system configurations
comprises a club head 10 shell outer surface 50 that is connected
to an electrically non-conducting object 62 in a predefined
location on club head 10 shell outer surface 50, that further
attaches to and supports a second electrically conductive element
(not shown, but within non conducting object 62) that is held in a
predetermined spatial relationship to club head 10 shell outer
surface 50. The electrical port of antenna system is defined by two
electrical connections points (not shown), the first electrical
connection point is on the interior surface of the electrically
conductive club head 10 shell and the second connection point is a
location on the second or additional electrically conducting
element (not shown, but within non conducting object 62) that is
feed through an insulating pass through (not shown) of the club
head 10 shell. The club head shell surface structure and all
predetermine or predefined dimension and locations and spatial
relationships of all electrically conducting elements and
electrically non conducting object are defined to optimize the
antenna system electrical port impedance characteristics for a
predefined frequency band and the antenna system radiation pattern
for desired characteristics.
[0127] As shown in FIG. 6A another exemplary antenna system
configuration comprises the club head 10 shell with two separate
electrically non-conducting object 62 and 62a, each with an
individual predetermined size and shape factors and each attached
at a separate predetermine location on club head 10 shell outer
surface 50. Further each electrically non-conducting object further
supports separate additional electrically conducting elements
(element not show but each within respective electrically
non-conducting objects) each with an individual predetermined fixed
spatial relationship to club head 10 shell outer surface 50. The
electrical port of the antenna system is defined by two electrical
connection points. The first connection point is on the interior
surface of the electrically conductive club head 10 shell and the
second electrical connection point is a single point that is
electrically connected both second and third electrically
conducting additional elements (not shown, but within respective
electrically non-conducting objects 61 and 62a). Further each
individual electrically conducting additional element is fed
through an individual insulating pass through in the club head 10
shell and the electrical connections between the two additional
electrically conducting elements is made in the interior cavity of
the club head shell (not shown) defining the second electrical
connection point of the antenna system electrical port. The club
head shell surface structure and all predetermine dimension and
locations of all electrically conducting elements and electrically
non conducting objects are defined to optimize the antenna system
electrical port impedance characteristics for a predefined
frequency band and the antenna system radiation pattern for desired
characteristics.
[0128] As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 7A another embodiment of the
antenna system is based on a patch antenna structure. As shown in
FIG. 7 an exemplary antenna system comprises a first electrically
conducting element that is the club head 10 shell that has a top
surface 51 that is adapted to be flat in a given surface area. An
electrically non-conducting object 80 is attached to the top
surface 51 at a predetermined location and orientation to top
surface 51. Further electrically non-conducting object 80 has a
predetermined size and shape and material properties and in this
example the object 80 is a material with a predetermined dielectric
property value. Further electrically non-conducting object 80 has
attached to it at a predetermined location, an additional
electrically conducting element 81 with a predetermined size and
shape. As shown in FIG. 7A a cross sectional expanded view of this
example antenna system shows the club head 10 shell top surface 51
attached to electrically non-conducting object 80 further attached
to the additional electrically conducting element 81. Further FIG.
7A shows the antenna system electrical port connection points 82
and 83. The electrical port connection point 82 is electrically
connected with wire or transmission line that passes through an
electrically insulated pass-through in club head 10 shell wall and
another pass-through in non-conducting object 80 to additional
electrically conducting element 81 where wire or transmission line
is electrically connected to additional electrically conducting
element 81. The electrical port connection point 83 is electrically
connected to electrically conductive club head 10 shell directly or
with short wire. The club head 10 shell outer surface 50 structure
and all predetermine dimension, shapes and locations of all
electrically conducting elements and electrically non-conducting
objects are defined to optimize the antenna system electrical port
impedance for desired characteristics for a predefined frequency
band and the antenna system radiation pattern for desired
characteristics.
[0129] Another antenna system example comprises a first conducting
element that is the electrically conducting club head 10 shell, and
at least two more additional electrically conducting elements
comprising at least one that is adapted for patched type
structure(s) and at least one adapted for a wire type structure(s)
of individual predetermined size and shape. Further the antenna
system may have electrically non-conducting objects of
predetermined size and shape associated with each of the additional
conducting elements. The club head shell 10 outer surface 50
structure and all predetermine dimension, shapes and locations of
all additional electrically conducting elements and electrically
non-conducting objects are defined to optimize the antenna system
electrical port impedance for desired characteristics for a
predefined frequency band and the antenna system radiation pattern
for desired characteristics.
[0130] Another embodiment antenna system has more than one
electrical port where each port has two electrical contact points.
This antenna system comprises at least three electrically
conducting elements and first electrically conducting element is
the golf club head 10 shell and at least two addition electrically
conducting elements. The first electrical port comprises two
electrical contact points and first electrical contact point is
electrically connected the first electrically conducting element
club head and second electrical contact point is connected to one
or more additional conducting element(s) but not all additional
conducting elements. The second or additional electrical ports(s)
each have two electrical contact points and the first electrical
contact point is electrically connected to the first electrically
conducting element the club head and the second electrical contact
point is electrical connected to at least one additional
electrically conducting element that is not electrically connected
to the electrical contact point of first port or other additional
port(s). The benefit of an integrated electronics system golf club
head with multiple antenna ports is the system can then support
full duplex operation with constant receive and transmit taking
place simultaneously on two different frequencies or two different
frequency bands. In addition an antenna system with multiple ports
could support MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) wireless
communication structures supporting much higher communication data
rates.
[0131] All attachments required between electrically conducting
elements and electrically non-conductive objects may be
accomplished with an electrical conductive or non-conductive
adhesive or fasteners.
[0132] All of the antenna system embodiments may have additional
electrical non-conducting structures that attached to the club head
10 shell external surface that further cover antenna system
components to provide a smooth surface of overall club head
structure to provide a similar aerodynamic structure to that of a
similar golf club head type. The material properties of the
aerodynamic enhancement structures include radio frequency
transparency with regards to radio wave signals. In other words do
not affect radio waves as radio waves pass through the aerodynamic
enhancement structures.
[0133] FIG. 7B shows a cross sectional view example of club head 10
with a patch configuration antenna system assembly embodiment with
an aerodynamic enhancement structure 85. Aerodynamic enhancement
structure 85 attaches to club head 10 shell outer surface 50
covering modified top surface area 51 and electrically conducting
element 81 and electrically non-conducting object 80. Aerodynamic
enhancement structure 85 may be attached to club head 10 outer
surface 50 with a non-conducting adhesive or fastener. The benefit
of the aerodynamic enhancement structure is that it allows greater
manipulation of the club head 10 shell outer surface 50 structure
for more flexibility in antenna system design, while providing the
aerodynamic properties of club head overall outer surface structure
to be substantially similar to that of a high performance club head
of similar type.
[0134] As previously recited, the antenna system has numerous
control variables that affect the electrical performance of the
total electronics system and the structural physical performance of
the club head. To define the predetermined values for all of the
control variables in the antenna system to meet electrical and
physical requirements, a design optimization process is used. A
means of antenna system design optimization comprises a process
with the steps of: [0135] 1. Define the club head type for the
system. [0136] 2. Define the frequency band of operation for the
antenna system [0137] 3. Define the desired radiation pattern of
the antenna system [0138] 4. Define the antenna system desired
electrical port impedance characteristic based the predefined
electronics drive port electrical impedance characteristic in
regards to the predefined frequency band of operation. [0139] 5.
Define an estimated number of additional electrically conducting
elements and what club head surface areas will be utilized for
desired radiation pattern coverage around club head. [0140] 6. If
any of the additional electrically conductive elements are intended
for patch structures define an estimate of the property of
dielectric constant for the electrically non-conducting object
based on frequency band and general surface area available for
selected club head surface area. [0141] 7. Calculate through know
estimation equations an initial estimates of size, shape and
dimensions of addition electrically conducting elements of the wire
type, and assume free space environment based on predefined
frequency of operation that defines related wavelengths of
operation. Standard or non-standard conducting element structures
may be used. Typical and standard structures include but are not
limited to wire type structures such as short dipole, 1/4 wave
dipole, half wave dipole, helix, L, F etc. Non-standard structures
can also be used, however, estimate calculation equations will need
to be derived independently based on Maxwell equations. [0142] 8.
Calculate through know estimation equations based on defined
frequency band the initial estimates of size, shape and dimensions
of addition electrically conducting element(s) of the patch type
and size, shape and dimensions of electrically non-conducting
object(s), in conjunction with a predefined dielectric property of
the associated electrically non-conducting object(s). Assume an
ideal planer ground connected to the electrically non-conducting
object and assume free space environment based on predefined
frequency of operation that defines related wavelengths. Standard
or non-standard conducting element structures may be used. Typical
and standard structures include but are not limited to patch or
leaky transmission line type structures on an ideal ground planer
surface such as layered and multilayered structures with a variety
of coupling feed types. These estimates will be a starting point
for further considering non-planer structures and a non-ideal
ground planes such as the club head shell. [0143] 9. Using
estimated size and shape and location for club head structure and
all additional electrically conducting elements and all
electrically non-conducting objects build a model in ANSYS HFSS 3d
full wave electromagnetic field solver. [0144] 10. For an antenna
system that use wire type additional electrically conducting
elements only: [0145] a. Adjust spatial location and orientation of
addition electrical conducting elements in relation to club head
shell to achieve desired radiation pattern. [0146] b. Adjust club
head shell outer surface area region contours related to each
additional electrically conducting elements to further tune
radiation pattern. [0147] c. Adjust size, shape and dimensions of
previous estimates (Step 6) of additional electrically conducting
elements to achieve a desired input port impedance characteristic
in the define frequency band. [0148] d. Repeat steps 9a through 9b
and further adjust end results of step 9c to retune radiation
pattern and input port impedance characteristics. [0149] e. Define
electrically non-conducting object structures including size and
shape for attachment to defined predetermined club head shell outer
surface area structure to further attach additional electrically
conductive elements of defined predetermined size and shape in
defined predetermined spatial reference to club head shell outer
surface area region. [0150] 11. For an antenna system that use
patch type additional electrically conducting elements only: [0151]
a. Adjust spatial location and orientation addition electrical
conducting elements associated fixed relation electrically
non-conducting objects in relation to club head shell to achieve
desired radiation pattern. [0152] b. Adjust club head shell outer
surface area region contours related to each additional
electrically conducting elements to further tune radiation pattern.
[0153] c. Adjust size, shape, and dimensions of previous estimates
(Step 7) of additional electrically conducting elements to achieve
a desired input port impedance characteristic in the define
frequency band. [0154] d. Repeat steps 10a through 10b and further
adjust end results of step 10c to retune radiation pattern and
input port impedance characteristics. [0155] 12. For an antenna
system that utilize both wire type and patch type additional
conducting elements: [0156] a. Conduct steps 9a and 10a [0157] b.
Conduct steps 9b and 10b [0158] c. Conduct steps 9c and 10c [0159]
d. Conduct steps 9d and 10d [0160] e. Conduct step 9e [0161] 13.
Evaluate assembled antenna system including all electrically
conducting elements and electrically non-conducting based on
electrical performance as an antenna with port impedance and
radiation pattern performance criteria and physical properties as a
golf club head with aerodynamics as a criteria. If aerodynamics of
club head outer surface structure not satisfactory implement
aerodynamic enhancement structures. [0162] 14. Define weight of
antenna assembly with all components including aerodynamic
enhancement structure (if used). At this point the electrically
conducting club head shell has zero wall thickness and therefore
zero weight. The distribution of club head shell wall thickness
will be defined later in the overall design optimization process of
when all assemblies are put together.
[0163] As shown in FIG. 8, the electronics assembly is the central
processing and electrical connection hub for all other assemblies
with electronic components. The two sensor categories, three
dimensional g-force sensor(s) 200 and the pressure force sensors
100 are electrically connected to electronics that capture the time
varying electrical signals of all of the sensors. The electrical
signals may or may not use signal conditioning 300 and or 300a
before they are input to sample and hold functions 401 and 401a.
The sample and hold functions 401 or 401a samples all sensor(s)
individually in a sensor category simultaneously at a rate defined
for each sensor category. The sampling rate of each sensor category
may be the same between sensor categories or may be different
between sensor categories. Further the sampling rate of an
individual sensor category may be constant or may be dynamically
change during the golf swing based on logic triggers in the
controller 406 associated with monitoring sensor levels of either
one or both sensor categories. During the time duration that
individual sample and hold stores sensor amplitude value in each of
the sensor categories then analog to digital conversion function(s)
402 and or 402a takes each sample value and converts it to a
digital representation. All of the digital samples for each sensor
category are associated with that single sample time on a
measurement time line of acquisition in "the apply sequencing
sensor category tag and time reference" function 403 and then are
moved into digital memory 404. The sampling rate for each sensor
category of the simultaneous sample and hold function 401 and 401a
are at, or faster than, the "Nyquist rate" determined by the
highest pertinent frequency component associated with each sensor
category. After all data has been loaded into memory storage 404
from a given golfer's swing, additional swing data can be captured
and stored or the data is further processed and formatted 405 for
transfer to a user interface function. All of the functions listed
are coordinated by a controller function 406, which may be
integrated together with other functions 400 such as a
sophisticated PIC (Periphery Interface Control) module with DSP
(Digital Signal Processing) functionality. In a preferred
embodiment, the signal is processed and formatted 405 to be applied
to a wireless transceiver 500 function. The wireless transceiver
function includes electronic circuitry that provides electronic
signals to an electrical drive port that is further connected to
the antenna system 500a electrical input port(s). The antenna
system emits and receives radio frequency waves for transfer of
information between a remote user interface such as a laptop
computer with wireless transceiver capabilities. All of the
functions in FIG. 8 that require electrical power to function are
supplied by an energy source such as battery power supply 600 that
is detachable from the integrated golf club or rechargeable if it
is implemented as a permanent component of the golf club head.
[0164] The electronics controller 406 dynamically organizes and
controls the electrical sequencing and processing of the signals
based on a fixed startup sequence and then triggers. When the
integrated electronic system golf club head is initially turned on,
the controller starts capturing and monitoring the g-force
sensor(s) 20 measurement axes values form sensors 200. After
startup the controller 406 comprises logic implemented with
firmware residing and executing in controller 406 that defines a
trigger events that may indicate for example weather the club head
is moving or still or what portion of the swing is taking place
based g-force sensor data. Further more complex triggers may be
defined for triggers based on a combination of g-force sensor data
and impact sensor data. Based on a predefined trigger events
occurring the controller instructs electronic circuitry to
individually or in any combination start or stop or adjust any
operational function or combination of functions for example:
memory storage of a given sensors category, wireless transmission,
sample rate for individual sensor categories or any other
electronic function affecting system operation and or mode of
operation. The benefits of the of a system based on predefined
logic triggers based on sensor inputs is the ability to optimize
the state of operation of electronic function when needed to
acquire the minimal amount of data to fully describe the desired
swing characteristics and further reducing electronic function
operations when not needed to minimize overall energy consumption.
The lower overall energy consumption of the electronics allows for
smaller lighter energy source or energy storage supply which
contributes to the overall design flexibility of achieving an
integrated electronics system golf club head with weight, center of
gravity and physical structural performance similar to that of a
regulation golf club head of similar type.
[0165] As shown in FIGS. 9, 9A, 9B, and 9C, the progression of a
golf swing is shown to provide an example of how triggers may work
by modifying electronic functions during the golf swing to provide
all required information while reducing overall average energy
consumption rate from battery source. This is only an example and
numerous other trigger configurations are anticipated and would be
obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing
this example. FIG. 9 shows the golfer during the backswing 801 and
only acceleration g-force sensor measurement are be captured at a
predefined sampling rate and stored and transmitted. FIG. 9A shows
the progression of the swing and at point 802 a predetermined
trigger is invoked. The trigger's logic criteria is based on a
combination of acceleration g-force measurements that determines
the swing is substantially into the power-stroke and the invoked
trigger causes the controller to increase the sampling rate of the
g-force acceleration sensors and to start or initiate measuring and
sampling and storing the impact force sensors at the predetermined
rate and further transmitting synchronized time stamped
measurements from memory storage of all sensors out of club head
wirelessly. FIG. 9B shows further progression of the golf swing and
another trigger is invoked at point 803 indicating the club head is
making contact with the ball 803a based on impact sensor inputs.
The invoked trigger that occurs at point 803 causes the controller
to start a timer which after a predetermined time duration relating
to location at position 804 shown in FIG. 9C shuts off the sampling
and capture and storage of impact sensor measurements and further
reduces the sampling rate of the acceleration g-force sensors.
Further, wireless transmitter continues to transmit both g-force
and impact sensor measurements from memory until all impact
measurements in memory have been wirelessly transmitted out.
Further wireless transceiver continues to transmit only
acceleration g-force sensors data. Further and not shown in the
figures, if golf club is set down and is not moving another trigger
is invoked based on g-force sensor, and the wireless transmitter is
shut off until time when movement is detected again invoking
another trigger causing the wireless transmitter is turned back
on.
[0166] The electronics assembly comprises input and output
electrical connections to all other assemblies. As previously shown
in FIG. 3 the other assemblies that have electrical connections to
the electronics assembly 18 are: club face assembly impact sensors
30, g-force sensor assembly 29 for orthogonal acceleration
measurements, antenna system assembly 27 and energy supply assembly
26. The electronics assembly comprises electronic components,
integrated circuits and various electronic connectors assembled on
a printed circuit board. The electronics assembly is optimized for
minimal weight and volume while providing reliable predefined
electronic functionality within an impact and shock environment.
The size and weight of the electronics assembly is defined by the
total aggregate weight of all pieces included in assembly with
attachment vehicles such as solder. The design optimization process
for electronic assembly include the steps of: [0167] 1. Define
swing speed dynamics range for golf population targeted. [0168] 2.
Define estimates of maximum impact forces that will be experienced
by club head when ball club head impact take place. [0169] 3.
Select electronic components and IC and connectors that provide
required electronic functions and that are robust to function under
shock estimates defined in step 2. [0170] 4. Layout printed circuit
board for all electronics components [0171] 5. Assemble circuit
board with all components, ICs and connectors to define electronics
assembly [0172] 6. Record the default out port impedance inherent
to an off the shelf RF circuitry such as an RF integrated circuit
for use in antenna system design. [0173] 7. Measure electronics
assemble to define size and weight [0174] 8. Define firmware code
for electronic process and logic triggers to provide required data
to describe swing characteristics and minimize overall current
power consumption. [0175] 9. Define by measurement the average
power consumption for a golf swing including all electronic
processing functions of assembly including wireless transceiver
functions with matched impedance load for intended frequency
band.
[0176] The energy source assembly comprises components that
facilitate the storage and release of energy to operate
electronics. The energy source components may comprise various
electrical components for enabling and disabling energy or power to
electronics, connectors for electrically connecting to all
electronics, and physical structure for assembly of all components
and physical structure for supporting assembly either internal or
external to club head shell cavity. The energy storage cells may be
batteries or capacitors or supper capacitors or other component
devices or combination of, that can store and release electrical
energy. Further, batteries may be of rechargeable or disposable
types.
[0177] The design optimization process for the energy source
assembly focuses defining a design that has minimal weight and
volume while providing operation of electronics for predetermined
time duration. The energy source assembly design optimization
process includes the steps of: [0178] 1. Define require time
duration of operations such as training session or a round of golf.
[0179] 2. Define total power requirements to operate all electrical
power consuming assemblies associated with integrated electronics
system golf club head. [0180] 3. Define the total energy required
to supply power for time duration defined in step 1. [0181] 4.
Define energy storage cell type and size and or number of energy
storage cells required to provide total energy defined in step 3.
[0182] 5. Define all electrical and physical support components
required for energy cell(s) integrations [0183] 6. Define assembled
energy assembly weight, volume and shape, and mass
distribution.
[0184] Another assembly for purposes of energy harvesting may also
be included in the integrated electronics system golf club head
that harvest energy from the impact sensor elements generated power
signal. The impact sensor elements may be made of piezoelectric
materials that do not require a power supply to function. The
piezoelectric elements, however, generate and provide an output
voltage and current waveform when a force is applied to the
elements such as the impact of a golf ball on the club face
assembly. A portion of the generated electrical power signal
comprising voltage and current from the impact sensor elements may
be used to apply charge to an energy storage cell device in a
recharging fashion. The portion of power signal extracted from the
impact sensor element(s) is done in a ratio format, so the shape of
the signal waveform from impact sensor elements applied to the
processing electronics is not changed. Further with the ratio of
signal amplitude extracted for recharging purposes known, no
information carried by signal portion applied to electronics
processing is lost.
[0185] The process of optimizing the overall assembly of the
integrated electronics golf club head is focused on defining a
system golf club head that has all measurements and electronic
processing and communication capabilities desired and that
functions substantially similar to regulation golf club head of
similar type based on physical properties. Further, the specific
physical properties being substantially similar include:
coefficient of restitution of club face, overall weight of club
head and center of gravity of club head. The system club head
variables that are defined in this final optimization process
include: placement of all assemblies, components and elements in
relation to club head shell outer surface and in conjunction
defining the club head shell wall thickness profile. The
optimization process for the aggregation of all assemblies and
structures for the integrated electronics system golf club head
include the steps of: [0186] 1. Define what functions are to be
included in system club head that defines what assemblies will be
utilized in or on club head. [0187] 2. Define the shape, weight and
mass distribution of utilized assemblies from previous optimization
processes results for each individual assembly except antenna
system. [0188] 3. In a CAD (Computer Aided Design) mechanical
design tool such as Solidworks.TM., model each assembly as
representative shape, volume and mass density for each assembly
from step 2 except antenna system. [0189] 4. In CAD tool, model
antenna system with club head shell structure with zero mass (zero
wall thickness) and without club face assembly and having an outer
surface shape or contour and all other elements and objects with
mass defined in antenna optimization process. [0190] 5. In CAD tool
attach club face assembly with antenna system assembly where club
face assembly is attached to club head shell outer surface to form
entire outer surface of club head system. [0191] 6. In CAD tool
define an estimated spatial relation all assemblies from step 2
with in assembly antenna system shell shape and club face assembly
forming cavity in step 5 that further results in a center of
gravity of aggregate of all assemblies near intended center of
gravity for overall club head system [0192] 7. Add wall thickness
in a uniform manner consistent with earlier define material that
has a defined mass density to define a club head system with desire
overall weight consistent with a regulation golf club head of
similar type. [0193] 8. Adjust in combination: [0194] a. wall
thickness profile maintaining mass volume of material and outer
surface structure of club head shell and [0195] b. spatial
relationships of assemblies to club head shell outer surface to
define the desired center of gravity of the overall club head
system. [0196] 9. Defines an addition weight and mass distribution
entity for mounting method and materials used for supporting
internal assemblies in defined spatial relationship from step 8
that defines an addition weight and mass distribution entity.
[0197] 10. Reduce or increase mass of material used for club head
shell wall thickness and iterate through steps 8 and 9 until
overall club head system desire weight and desired center of
gravity are achieved. [0198] 11. Validate through CAD structural
analysis that club head shell physical structure wall thickness and
mounting methods support the physical stresses required for
swinging and impact consistent with a golf club head in use as a
golfing instrument. [0199] 12. If validation is successful
optimization is complete. If validation fails alter both club head
shell wall thickness profile structure to provide more structural
support where needed using define mass allocation and iterate
through steps 8-11.
[0200] As seen in the overall optimization process of the
integrated electronics system golf club head design, the process
requires providing structural integrity of club head shell
structure with a predetermine weight that is less than a typical
club head shell of similar type without additional assemblies. The
club head wall thickness profile variable and the materials profile
selected are the central control factors defining structural
integrity within the confines of a predetermined weight limit.
[0201] FIG. 10 shows a club head shell 2000 with exemplary varying
wall thickness profile type for the benefit of minimal weight and
robust structural integrity. The club head shell 2000 (without the
club face) has an outer surface 50 and an inner cavity 2001 and
inner cavity 2001 has an inner surface (not labeled). This first
embodiment of the club head shell structure defines a wall
thickness profile that comprises areas of increased thickness and
allows the predetermined and predefined outer surface 50 shape or
contour to remain constant and unchanged. Exemplary areas of
increased thickness 2002 are shown protruding into the inner cavity
2001 as interconnected ribs and are only shown for a small portion
of the total shell for clarity of illustrative drawing purposes,
however, would be implemented throughout the club head shell
structure in predetermined area locations of the shell 2000 based
on known applied stress and acceptable strain requirements. The
areas of increased thickness 2002 in this example can be described
as rib like structures that are similar to truss systems that
provide large structure force support with a conservative use of
materials. The areas of increased thickness 2002 or interconnected
ribs adapted to be a truss like system provides structural
resilience to stresses experienced by the club head shell,
especially a ball impact on the club face and stress areas around
the hosel connection. The areas of increased thickness 2002 or
ribbed structural system allows forces acting on the club head
shell to be distributed along interconnected ribs allowing the
shell wall thickness between the ribs to be very thin for the
benefit of weight and mass distribution control. The areas of
increased thickness 2002 and the protrusion thickness differences
as compared to areas of minimal wall thickness define a volume of
material that may be made of any predetermined material that is the
same as, or similar to, or non-similar to, the material of the
outer surface 50 with electrically conductive properties. In this
embodiment the material properties the said volume of material for
areas of increased wall thickness are the same as the material
properties of the outer surface 50. Further the minimal wall
thickness of the club head shell with regards to antenna function
purposes requires only a few microns to a few mils of thickness as
defined by skin effects related to the material property of
electrical conductivity of metal(s) or alloy(s) used for the outer
surface. Therefore, the minimum thickness of the club head shell
wall thickness covering and between the areas of increased
thickness 2002 or ribs is dominated only by the requirement of
structural enhancement through support of the ribs. The areas of
increased thickness 2002 or ribbed structures and minimal thickness
areas are described entirely with the wall thickness profile of the
club head shell 2000. Further the areas of increased thickness 2002
or ribs system on inner portion of club head shell may be any
predetermined three dimensional pattern(s) or non-symmetric design
that meets the desired structural physical properties and weight
and mass distribution goals of club head shell system.
[0202] As shown in FIG. 10A another embodiment of the club head
shell structure utilizes multiple materials. FIG. 10 A shows a
close up of a cross section view showing a multi material wall
thickness profile structure. The first material 2003 is used for
the club shell outer surface area 50 and the portion of the wall
thickness profile from the surface area 50 to a depth into the wall
defined by minimum wall thickness 2004. The first material 2003 is
a material such as a metal or alloy that has electrically
conductive properties required by the antenna system. The second
material 2005 is used for areas of increased wall thickness 2002
and may be a light weight composite or other type material with
high structural strength and low mass density for light weight
structural support. Example of such materials may be but not
limited to a resin based carbon fiber composite. The first material
and second material may be attached with a high strength adhesive
or other attachment bonding process.
[0203] The club head shell structure with predetermined varying
wall thickness profile is modeled and designed as a single entity,
however for manufacturing purposes the design is segmented into two
or more pieces that are attached through welding or other process.
An example of the segmented two pieces may be a crown and a base
that allow attachment of other electronics based assemblies before
attachment of crown and based and club face.
[0204] FIG. 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the invention. The
golf club head is attached to a golf club shaft. The golf club
system is then used as a measurements system that transmits the
measured data from the golf club head to a remote user interface
wirelessly 1001. The user human interface apparatus could be a
smart phone, PDA, computer or custom wireless enabled thin or thick
client device. In the preferred embodiment, the human interface
apparatus is a laptop computer 1002. The laptop computer 1002 may
have wireless abilities already built in for wireless communication
such as WiFi, Bluetooth.TM., Zigbee.TM. or other standard or
non-standard wireless protocols. If the laptop doesn't have
integrated wireless hardware for a particular wireless protocol, a
USB wireless adapter and associated software may be used. The
laptop 1002 will have software 1100 running on it that is
associated specifically with processing the time varying
synchronized data from the golf club head into golf performance
metrics for human interpretation in many different user selectable
and definable formats.
[0205] FIG. 12 shows the software 1100 capabilities and the
structure of the program. The software 1100 will give great
flexibility to the golfer as to how information is conveyed 1120
and what metrics information is/are conveyed 1130.
[0206] As seen in FIG. 12 and further categorized in FIG. 13, the
metrics information 1130 that can be conveyed is broken into four
categories: (1) audio; (2) text; (3) still graphics; and (4) motion
graphics which are time dilation sequenced graphics that would play
as a time expanded video of various time varying metrics. Since the
content that can be displayed in text is the same content that can
be conveyed through audio, which are scalar values, these two
groups of user selectable metrics can be combined 1131. The
available content for the still graphic options 1132 and the motion
graphics options 1133 are more complex, therefore they each have
their own unique selectable metrics lists.
[0207] As shown in FIG. 14, the still graphic options 1132 and the
motion graphics options 1133 are more complex in the sense they
both convey three dimensional spatial metrics. However, the motion
graphics 1133 adds the fourth dimension of time to create a
powerful understanding for the golfer as to the dynamic nature of
the metrics being presented.
[0208] FIG. 15 shows an alternative embodiment of the club head
face construction where the outer metal layer 13 of the clubface 11
is not rigidly connected to the club head housing 16 and the inner
layer 14 is rigidly connected the golf club head housing 16. The
outer layer 13 is connected to the non-metallic, significantly hard
monolith 15 that has the sensor array 30 embedded within it. The
outer layer 13 is attached to the monolith material 15 with a
strong durable adhesive. The monolith material 15 is also attached
to the inner layer 14 with a durable adhesive. The inner layer 14
is rigidly connected to the club housing 16 with a welded seam as
heretofore disclosed.
[0209] FIG. 16 shows yet another embodiment of the club head face
construction where there is only an inner metal layer 14 and the
outer surface of the clubface 11 is the embedding material 15 that
encapsulates the array of pressure force sensors 30. The embedding
material 15 in this case is a non-conducting, very hard, durable
non brittle material. Many materials exist that could be used and
some example material families could be polycarbonates or very hard
polymers. In this embodiment, the monolith material 15 is also
attached to the inner layer 14 with a durable adhesive, while the
inner layer 14 is rigidly connected to the club housing 16 with a
welded seam.
[0210] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been
disclosed, those having ordinary skill in the art will understand
that changes can be made to the specific embodiments without
departing form the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of
the invention is not to be restricted, therefore, to the specific
embodiments. Furthermore, it is intended that the appended claims
cover any and all such applications, modifications, and embodiments
within the scope of the present invention.
* * * * *